Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Sulphur (S) is an essential secondary plant nutrient required for synthesizing sulfur-containing amino acids (cystine, cysteine, methionine) and chlorophyll.
Several commercial chemical fertilizers contain sulfur as a secondary component alongside their primary nutrients.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the sulfur content of each given fertilizer:
1.Single Superphosphate (SSP) (A): SSP contains \( 16\%\ \text{P}_2\text{O}_5 \) as its primary nutrient and about \( 11\% \text{ to } 12\%\ \text{S} \) (usually present as calcium sulfate/gypsum).
Therefore, the range of \( 9\text{-}12\% \) S is correct.
Thus, statement (A) is correct.
2.Ammonium sulphate (B): This fertilizer contains \( 20.6\%\ \text{N} \) and \( 24\%\ \text{S} \).
The statement claiming it contains \( 16\%\ \text{S} \) is incorrect.
Thus, statement (B) is incorrect.
3.Potassium sulphate (C): Also known as sulfate of potash (SOP), it contains \( 50\%\ \text{K}_2\text{O} \) and \( 18\%\ \text{S} \).
Thus, statement (C) is correct.
4.Ammonium phosphate sulphate (D): This complex fertilizer (commonly 16-20-0) contains \( 16\%\ \text{N} \), \( 20\%\ \text{P}_2\text{O}_5 \), and \( 15\%\ \text{S} \).
Thus, statement (D) is correct.
Therefore, statements (A), (C), and (D) are correct, while (B) is incorrect.
Step 2: Final Answer:
The correct statements are (A), (C), and (D) only.